About therapy

« Alice : Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here ?  The Cheshire Cat :  That depends a good deal on where you want to get to.  Alice : I don't much care where.  The Cheshire Cat : Then it doesn't much matter which way you go.  Alice : ... So long as I get somewhere.  The Cheshire Cat : Oh, you are sure to do that, as long as you walk long enough. »

Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Most simply, therapy provides a place to talk over any problems, fears or concerns with a professional in a safe, confidential setting.

No miracle recipe or technique can erase the pain. No method can guarantee personal or professional success. Good therapy is the one that the counsellor creates specifically for you. According to one's personality, the therapist will use the tool box which suits her best. I do not believe in better or worse therapists, although experience can make the difference... There are different types of therapy as well as various theoretical orientations and therapeutic techniques, some of which are better suited to particular problems. Psychologists are well-trained to treat a wide range of problems such as life adjustment difficulties and relationship problems, emotional disorders such as depression or anxiety, phobias and panic disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, work and stress-related problems, psychological aspects of health-related problems, addictions, severe mental disorders, and so forth. However, most psychologists will specialize in the treatment of just some of these areas.

I believe that psychotherapy is a means of overcoming obstacles, opening doorways to self-discovery, and recognizing your potential.

I offer individual therapy and enjoy working with older adolescents and adults. I am well-experienced in treating various mood and behavioural disorders. In addition, I am especially interested in helping people with relationship problems, life-stage transitions (such as changes in employment status, divorce, “empty-nest” syndrome, or caring for elderly parents), women’s issues, and personal development. Reflective of my depth psychology orientation, my aim is to help you understand how past experiences and unconscious processes may influence current problems or dysfunctional patterns. 

Through the integration of insight and external change, I believe people can regain a sense or personal direction over their lives, find new solutions, and feel good about their decisions.

The length of treatment and types of interventions are largely dependent upon the nature of the problem and the desired outcome. While some problems may be amenable  within a few sessions, to get a real change and a long lasting development requires a  deep and long-term work.  When I help people identify and work through dysfunctional patterns in their relationships, my approach is more reflective and insight-oriented. Where appropriate, dream work is also incorporated. To me, the freudian analysis is "the royal way" to untangle one by one the the resistances as they emerge from the unconscious.

Most importantly, I value and respect the process of psychotherapy and favor a safe place to give voice to fears and concerns, consider alternatives, and discover options.

« Changer, c'est d'abord changer de point de vue »

Pontalis